Progestin only-oral contraceptives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18597/rcog.536Keywords:
mini pill, contraception, contraceptives, oral, progestins, progestin-only contraceptives, progestagensAbstract
Although progestin-only oral contraceptives or mini-pills have been available for many years, they are less known and less prescribed or recommended than combined oral contraceptives. Due to being oestrogen-free, progestin-only oral contraceptives have an important role and a defined place in contemporary hormonal contraception. The first progestin mini-pills (ethynodiol, linestrenol and norethisterone) were followed by levonorgestrel and then desogestrel; drospirenone is now being evaluated. The levonorgestrel mini-pill has always had a unique place in oral contraception whilst breastfeeding; the desogestrel mini-pill may also be recommended beyond the breastfeeding period due to its ovulation-inhibiting ability. Such ability has also been observed when prescribing drospirenone-only pills. The purpose of this review is to orientate people working in the area of health to identify the differences and similarities between the mini-pill and combined oral contraceptives. Progestin-only oral contraceptives must be considered during contraceptive counselling to ensure good clinical safety and because of the observed benefits.Author Biography
Alvaro Monterrosa
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